Discover the Wonders Surrounding Santa Fe, New Mexico

There are numerous compelling reasons to travel to Santa Fe, known affectionately as “the City Different.” One of the primary attractions is the city’s proximity to some of the most historic and culturally rich locations in the United States. This area was the backdrop where the Wild West’s fantasies and realities took shape, creating enduring monuments established by pre-colonial civilizations, all while Spanish, Mexican, and American influences converge on every plate of food.

Moreover, the terrain of Northern New Mexico’s high desert is among the most biodiverse lands in the country. Centuries of wind and water erosion have sculpted unique landscapes, making them worth exploring. Journeying here leads to a profound understanding of a different facet of New Mexico. As you wind through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, you will discover hidden villages, each with unique stories.

Chimayo

Located just off the renowned “High Road to Taos,” the historic village of Chimayo is also a place rich in history and culture. This village harks back to Spanish colonial times, with its 19th-century church recognized as one of the most important Catholic shrines in the United States.

Visiting during Holy Week unveils a significant experience as hundreds of pilgrims share the picturesque 29-mile journey from Santa Fe. Many participate in a traditional ritual of walking and carrying crosses to this sacred destination. The Santuario de Chimayo, an adobe church built in 1813, stands as the focal point of these devotions.

Chimayo’s status as a sacred place extends back even further, predating the Spanish arrival. It was considered a holy site for the Tewa people. Spanish settlers observed miraculous healings associated with the site’s soil, and the church includes a unique area where visitors can access this holy dirt.

Ojo Caliente

Another notable destination is Ojo Caliente, famous for its hot springs that Native Americans revered for their healing properties. The first bathhouse was established in 1868, and the resort has developed into a premier spa destination while retaining its historic charm.

For visitors seeking a unique experience, Ojo offers activities such as mud bathing, renowned for its detoxifying properties, followed by warm mineral spring water for rinsing.

Pojoaque

To gain a deeper understanding of the Tewa culture, a visit to the Poeh Cultural Center in Pojoaque is highly recommended. This center promotes cultural preservation through art galleries and exhibitions celebrating Pueblo life.

Abiquiu

Santa Feans often ponder why anyone would travel to Europe for art when New Mexico boasts stunning artistry rooted in the land. The dramatic landscapes of Abiquiu have attracted many renowned artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe. The area’s striking rock formations present unique visual experiences not easily captured in photographs.

Bandelier National Monument

Venture an hour west to Bandelier National Monument, where evidence of human history stretches back over 11,000 years. Visitors can explore cliff dwellings carved from volcanic stone, still reminding us of the ancient Keres and Tewa ancestral inhabitants.

Each of these destinations provides a taste of New Mexico’s rich culture, history, and natural wonders. Whether you’re exploring the sacred sites of Chimayo or enjoying the hot springs of Ojo Caliente, these experiences showcase the diverse beauty and cultural heritage surrounding Santa Fe.